UH’s Taylor sidelined for spring practice

Slotback Rick Taylor will have to settle for mental repetitions when Hawaii spring football practice starts March 31.

Taylor injured himself lifting weights March 10 and underwent surgery two days later. The sophomore is out for all of the month-long camp.

"I tore my pectoral muscle and tendon off the bone while bench-pressing," Taylor said. "My arm's going to be in a sling for six weeks."

Taylor, who has yet to catch a pass in a game, is among several receivers hoping to impress as the Warriors look to replace four departed starters.

"We were looking forward to Rick getting out there. He understands the offense," offensive coordinator Ron Lee said. Taylor was a favorite receiver of Heisman Trophy winner Tim Tebow at Nease High School in Florida, in an attack similar in concept to UH's run-and-shoot.

"He's kind of struggled with injuries so far in his career. He's had hamstring and groin, and shoulder problems, too. We're going to get him involved in practice, keep him busy."

Although Taylor can't suit up and practice, he said he's looking forward to the 15 sessions.

"I'm down, but I'm hopeful," he said. "I want to help out the younger guys in learning the offense."

The competition is open, Lee said. But veterans Greg Salas, Mike Washington, Aaron Bain and Malcolm Lane will get the first look at replacing Jason Rivers, Davone Bess, Ryan Grice-Mullins and C.J. Hawthorne.